Production
When we speak of production regarding electronic field trips, it can be in reference to production of the videos that appear on the web pages, audio files, or web page production. However on this page, production refers to video and audio only. The website design and production will be addressed on the website design and"example" pages.

Below is a powerpoint slideshow that lays out concepts and tips to consider in order to produce high quality video and audio to include in your field trips.


Here is an example of a school produced video to analyze for production techniques:
Henry Co. Video Example

Here is another nice powerpoint from an another source that has some good tips for shooting specifically for the web. It points out tips like "shoot low action shots since fast or high action tends to look very blurry on the web".
Here is a wonderful video production tutorial on KET Teacher's Domain
:
Learning Through Video Production
For more indepth instructions and tutorials on many aspects of production, check out this website:
Media College

Video Production
Belle_video_production_comp.jpg
Some tips about capturing good video:
  • When possible, use a tripod for a steady shot and to keep your camera safe.
  • When not using tripod stand squarely and use both hands to steady camera.
  • Move camera smoothly and with purpose
  • Rehearse scenes and camera moves (blocking).
  • Capture supporting video (b-roll) to make your edited video more visual. Get cut-aways: Get shots of people's reactions. Grab shots of local architecture, get close-ups (detail shots) of objects referenced in the audio. This is especially important in shooting for a field trip.
  • Avoid shooting subjects against a strong backlight.
  • Learn how to frame shots properly and the purpose of different shots and angles.
  • Vary shots but don’t overuse zoom.
  • Avoid long zooms as it makes shots appear wobbly. Physically get closer to subject if possible
  • Lay down pre-roll and post-roll. This will help with post-production editing later
  • With tape cameras be sure to correct for roll-back.

And here is a really cool tip on how to get amazing looking "dolly" shots without having a dolly or crane!


Audio Production
audio_at_Byck.jpg
Some tips about capturing good audio:
  • If equipment permits, use an external microphone and place close to talent.
  • If equipment permits, monitor sound for quality with earphones.
  • When using the built-in microphone, move the camera closer to subject and zoom out if necessary.
  • Pay attention to and possible eliminate or reduce distracting background noise. When shooting outside, you may have to wait for a vehicle or airplane to get out of the scene audio-wise.

Check out this pdf for a list of tips for on-location audio production from KET audio engineer, Roger Tremaine:

(Also see planning for interviews on Pre-production page)


On-Air Tips for Talent
tim_womick_talent.jpg
  • Make sure you can read and properly pronounce words (especially people’s names).
  • Wait for your cue before speaking.
  • Smile! (when appropriate)
  • When addressing audience, look into camera when speaking as much as possible.
  • Hold referred- to objects close to face when possible so it is easy to frame shot "spokesmodel pose."
  • Speak clearly, projecting your voice toward the microphone.


Practice Activity
Open this PDF about how to conduct and interview and do the suggested activity to practice your skills.


Post-Production